As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change around our little white church on the hill, life at St. Paul's is picking back up. Summer schedules are winding down, a new school year is underway, and our calendar is filling with chances to worship, learn, and simply spend time together.
Whether you've been part of the St. Paul's family for decades or you're looking for a church home, we'd love to see you this season. Here's what's coming up in September and October.
Men's Prayer Breakfast
Saturday, September 12 | 8:30 a.m.
Men of the congregation are invited to start their Saturday with breakfast, fellowship, and prayer.
Sunday School Opening & Picnic
Sunday, September 13
September 13 is one of the fullest days on our fall calendar, and there's something for every age:
- 8:45 a.m. | Sunday School begins. Sunday School kicks off for the new school year, and all children are welcome. You can register your child here: [Sunday School registration link].
- 8:45 a.m. | Adult Bible Study begins. While the kids are in class, Pastor Stefanec will begin a new study of the Gospel of Matthew. This class meets every Sunday morning.
- 10:00 a.m. | Worship and Teacher Installation. During the service, we'll install all of our Sunday School teachers and pray over the year ahead.
- After worship | Moon bounce and potluck picnic. To celebrate the opening of Sunday School, we'll have a moon bounce for the children, followed by a potluck picnic for the whole congregation. To help us plan the meal, please sign up on the sheet on the bulletin board in the narthex, and if you're able, bring a side dish or dessert to share.
- 6:00 p.m. | Confirmation Classes. Sunday evening Confirmation classes with Pastor Stefanec get underway. Parents are welcome to attend, too.
Questions about Sunday School or the picnic? Reach out to Steve Kopitzke.
New Wednesday Bible Study: Winning the War in Your Mind
Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m., beginning September 16
Join us this fall for a new Wednesday evening Bible study as we work through Winning the War in Your Mind by Craig Groeschel. To get the most out of our time together, please order the book and its companion workbook (both available on Amazon) before we meet. Before the first class, read Chapter 1 and complete the Chapter 1 section of the workbook so we can dive right in.
Have questions? Contact the church office. We'd love to have you join us.
Women's Fellowship & Autumn Jar Craft
Autumnal Decoupage Jar
Saturday, October 3 | Fellowship at 9:00 a.m. | Craft at 10:00 a.m.
The Women's Fellowship Group will hold its meeting at 9:00 a.m., then move to the Educational Building at 10:00 a.m. for a seasonal craft. Together we'll make autumn leaf jars like the one pictured above. With red and gold leaves layered on the glass, each jar glows warmly once a light is placed inside, making it a lovely touch for a fall table or windowsill.
For questions about the craft, please see Shauna Kopitzke.
Crock Pot Soup Cook-Off

Saturday, October 24 | 5:00–7:00 p.m.
Get your favorite recipe ready! Our Women's Fellowship Group is sponsoring a Crock Pot Soup Cook-Off. Make your best crock pot soup and bring it to be voted on. First- and second-place winners will each receive a gift card.
Not much of a cook? You don't need to bring a soup to come, taste, and vote. Water, rolls, crackers, and dessert will be provided. There is a $10 suggested donation per family.
If you have any questions, please see Sheri Dayton.
St. Paul's Book Meet
Opens Saturday, October 24, after the Cook-Off | On display through November 8
Once the soup votes are in, stop by the St. Paul's Book Meet. Browse devotions, books, and Lutheran history studies recommended by your fellow members, with titles for all ages and a wide range of interests. It's also a great chance to start a Christmas shopping list, so bring something to jot down the author, title, and ISBN of the books that catch your eye.
The display will be set up in the Educational Building from October 24 through November 8, open before and after services. For more information, please see Shauna Kopitzke.
Every Week at St. Paul's
Alongside these special events, our weekly rhythm continues all season long:
- Sundays, 8:45 a.m. | Sunday School for children
- Sundays, 8:45 a.m. | Adult Bible Study on the Gospel of Matthew with Pastor Stefanec
- Sundays, 10:00 a.m. | Worship
- Sundays, 6:00 p.m. | Confirmation Classes
- Wednesdays, 6:00 p.m. | Winning the War in Your Mind Bible Study (beginning September 16)
Come Join Us
This fall is full of opportunities to grow in faith and in friendship, and there's a seat for you at every one of them. You can find the latest details anytime on our church calendar.